As we grow older, our needs and preferences regarding living spaces evolve. Planning for long-term comfort and accessibility becomes crucial, especially when constructing a new home. Creating an age-in-place home requires thoughtful design, prioritizing functionality, and ease of use for individuals of all ages and abilities. Universal design principles play a critical role in crafting such homes, aiming to create a barrier-free, inclusive environment that can adapt to changing needs over time. As experienced Utah County home builders, Salisbury Homes specializes in designing and constructing homes with foresight, ensuring your living space gracefully adapts to your evolving lifestyle.
Universal design refers to a set of design principles and practices aimed at creating living spaces that are accessible, functional, and comfortable for people of all ages and physical abilities. These principles prioritize accessibility, ease of use, and adaptability, ensuring that a home remains suitable for its occupants throughout their lifetime. By incorporating universal design principles, homeowners can create an inclusive and future-proof living space where they can age in place comfortably and safely.
In this blog post, we will explore the key universal design principles that contribute to an age-in-place home and how they can benefit you and your family. Learn how the team at Salisbury Homes can guide you through creating a custom Utah County home featuring universal design elements that cater to your specific needs, ensuring your living environment remains comfortable, accessible, and stylish as your needs evolve.
Are you planning for the long-term and considering universal design principles in your new Utah County home? Read on to explore the benefits of age-in-place living and how Salisbury Homes can help you design a home tailored to your present and future needs.
Single-Level Living for Enhanced Accessibility
One of the primary universal design principles that promote age-in-place living is the concept of single-level living. By designing a home without stairs or steps, occupants can navigate the entire living area with ease, regardless of age or physical ability.
Key elements for single-level living include:
1. Master Suite on the Main Floor: Having the master bedroom and bathroom on the main level ensures easy access and eliminates the need for stairs or elevators.
2. Open Floor Plan: An open floor plan allows for better maneuverability and accessibility, making it easier for occupants to move between rooms without encountering physical barriers.
3. Barrier-Free Entrances: Designing entrances without steps or thresholds makes it easier for individuals in wheelchairs or using walkers to enter and exit the home safely.
At Salisbury Homes, we understand the importance of accessibility and can help design your Utah County home with single-level living in mind, ensuring a comfortable and convenient environment for all occupants.
Adaptive and Functional Design Elements
Incorporating adaptive and functional design elements into your age-in-place home allows for easier use and interaction with your living space, regardless of physical ability or age.
Some key adaptive and functional design features include:
1. Wider Doorways and Hallways: Designing doorways at least 32 inches wide and hallways at least 36 inches wide ensures wheelchair accessibility and easy navigation throughout the home.
2. Adjustable Countertops and Cabinets: Including adjustable countertops and cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms allows for customization according to individual needs and preferences.
3. Lever Handles on Doors and Faucets: Opting for lever handles instead of traditional knobs makes doors and faucets easier to use for individuals with limited dexterity or range of motion.
By collaborating with Salisbury Homes in Utah County, you can ensure your home’s design incorporates adaptive and functional elements that cater to your family’s needs and foster an accessible living environment.
Safe and Comfortable Bathroom Design
An age-in-place home requires careful attention to the design and functionality of the bathroom, as this space can pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility or physical impairments.
To create a safe and comfortable bathroom, consider the following:
1. Curbless Showers: A curbless shower eliminates the need to step over a threshold, making it more accessible for all users.
2. Grab Bars: Strategically positioning grab bars near toilets and showers can provide support and stability, reducing the risk of falls.
3. Non-Slip Flooring: Opting for non-slip tile or flooring can create a safer environment in wet areas prone to slips and falls.
With the expertise of Salisbury Homes, your Utah County home can incorporate smart bathroom design that enhances safety and comfort for all occupants.
Inclusive Outdoor Spaces and Landscaping
Creating an age-in-place home also involves designing inclusive outdoor spaces that can be enjoyed by all members of the household.
Some universal design principles for outdoor spaces include:
1. Accessible Pathways: Design pathways and walkways with a smooth, even surface to ensure easy navigation for individuals using wheelchairs or walkers.
2. Covered Outdoor Living Areas: Providing sheltered outdoor spaces, such as covered porches or patios, can make it easier for individuals with limited mobility to enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the elements.
3. Low-Maintenance Landscaping: Selecting low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants reduces the need for strenuous yard work, ensuring the property remains manageable and attractive.
The experienced team at Salisbury Homes can guide you through the process of designing inclusive and welcoming outdoor spaces that complement your age-in-place Utah County home.
Partner with Salisbury Homes for Your Age-In-Place Home in Utah County
At Salisbury Homes, we understand the importance of planning for the future and the benefits of creating age-in-place homes featuring universal design principles. By partnering with our expert home builders, you can create a custom Utah County home that aligns with your long-term needs and provides a comfortable, functional, and accessible living environment for all members of your household.
Are you ready to start planning your age-in-place home in Utah County? Contact Salisbury Homes to learn more about our commitment to universal design and accessible living spaces, and let us help you bring your vision to life. Together, we will create a home that evolves with you, meeting your needs for years to come.